That means “the barrel has been tapped.” It’s Oktoberfest time in Munich, Germany. This is New Years Eve in Times  Square, except it lasts 16 days. Non-stop partying and revelry. The map below shows the location of the beer tents. (Yes, that’s plural. Very plural.)

Map

Each tent (actually a large temporary building) holds thousands of beer drinking festivites. You’ll be stunned the first time you see one. They’re *immense* structures. Like large aircraft hangars filled with beer drinking, song singing, bratwurst eating friends. If you can’t enjoy yourself in a beer tent, well…..

Beer Tent

Did I mention that each of those blue tent-like symbols represents a separate tent? And each holds thousands of people. And scattered around the tents is the best carnival you’ve ever seen. Rides and food and vendors and people. Good times, for sure.

If you go, plan to spend a couple of weeks. You’ll have your fill of Oktoberfest after a day or two, but Munich is a beautiful city and it’s very close to the Alpine region of Garmisch and (just over the mountain) Innsbruck, Austria. September and October are the perfect weather months in Germany. Warmish days and cool nights. Usually sunny, too. Innsbruck is a great city to meander around and the Alps are like nothing you’ve ever seen. Truly spectacular.

If you’re so inclined, rent a car for a few days. Go big and get a BMW or Mercedes and enjoy the freedom that is the autobahn. There truly is no speed limit and you won’t believe how quickly you get used to traveling at 120 MPH. Of course you’ll hate driving here once you get back. 😉